White House Announces Efforts to Build 21st Century Grid

This morning (June 13, 2011) the White House introduced important initiatives that are part of President Obama’s Blueprint for a Secure Energy Future.

At a White House event announcing the release of the Cabinet-level National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) report A Policy Framework for the 21st Century Grid, John P. Holdren, President Obama’s science and technology advisor and Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, stated:

“A 21st century grid is essential to America’s ability to lead the world in clean energy and win the future.” He added, “By unlocking the potential of innovation in the electric grid, we are allowing consumers and businesses to use energy more efficiently even as we help utilities provide cleaner energy and more reliable service.”

Holdren was joined by other high-level Administration officials who described the new initiatives and the report. The event also included private-sector leaders and other innovators from across the Nation.

“America cannot build a 21st century economy with a 20th century electricity system. By working with states, industry leaders, and the private sector, we can build a clean, smart, national electricity system that will create jobs, reduce energy use, and expand renewable energy production,” said U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu.

The NSTC report is being promoted as “a roadmap to ensure all Americans benefit from investments in the Nation’s electric infrastructure.”